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There Is No Way LG Autonomy Can Work In Nigeria – Fayose

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah

Ayo Fayose, the former Governor of Ekiti State, has raised concerns following the recent Supreme Court ruling that supports the direct allocation of monthly funds from the federation account to local governments.

A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Fayose highlighted that despite the court’s decision, obstacles to local government autonomy persist due to the actions of state Houses of Assembly and governors.

Speaking as a guest on Sunday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today, Fayose pointed out the inherent challenges in achieving true local government autonomy. He emphasized that without the backing of a governor, it is practically impossible for anyone from the grassroots to become a local government chairman. In his view, both the judiciary and the Federal Government cannot fully enforce local government autonomy.

Expressing his viewpoint, Fayose stated, “While I may not be a lawyer but a seasoned politician and an elder statesman by God’s grace, I firmly advocate against any form of government interference in local government funds distribution. It is important to understand that you cannot separate the local government from the state government. The local government chairman’s position is intricately tied to the governor’s support. Any suggestion otherwise is futile.”

Fayose further elaborated on the control mechanisms in place, noting that during his tenure as governor, funds were channeled from Abuja, managed by non-political entities separate from the council chairman and politicians. He highlighted the role of the House of Assembly in overseeing and regulating local government activities.

He concluded by questioning the true extent of power being delegated to local governments, emphasizing the current complexities and limitations within the system.

The PDP chieftain expressed his concerns about the lack of commitment among state lawmakers and council officials. He highlighted the issue of council officials not taking their responsibilities seriously, citing instances where many workers fail to show up for work on certain days of the week.

He emphasized the importance of respect for the governor within the local government system, stating that any council chairperson who disregards the governor’s authority is likely to face consequences from the House of Assembly. He explained that the House of Assembly oversees the activities of council chairpersons and ensures compliance with governance protocols.

The chieftain observed a significant absence of local government staff during council meetings on Wednesdays and Fridays, estimating that less than 10% of the workforce is present at the office. He challenged anyone to dispute this claim, emphasizing the prevalent lack of work ethic among local government employees. He criticized the tendency for NULGE and local government leaders to intervene on behalf of non-performing staff when attempts are made to hold them accountable.

In comparing the administrative efficiency of the state government to that of the local government, he noted a stark difference, alleging that many individuals working in the local government prioritize financial gain over fulfilling their duties. He pointed out instances where individuals have relocated from their assigned states yet continue to receive salaries, illustrating the systemic issues within the local government structure.

Oborevwori Swear-in Avweromre, Oyibode, Dagidi, Onogba, 21 Others As LG Chairmen In Delta

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, has swear-in 25 newly-elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 local governments in the state with charge to embark on viable infrastructural projects and ensure modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent service delivery.
Governor Oborevwori also tasked them to avoid profligacy typified by wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle, but to address the recurring problems of insecurity, poverty, unemployment and environmental decay in the various local government areas.
Oborevwori gave the charge while swearing-in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 Local Government Areas in Asaba, the state capital.
He explained that it was necessary for the chairmen to stay close to the people by operating from their area headquarters and warned that they must shun the unhealthy practice of running the local governments from offshore, especially Asaba and Warri.
Governor Oborevwori, said: “To the elected Local Government Council Chairmen, I urge you to reciprocate the huge mandate that has been given to you by giving preference to the needs and aspirations of your people with a view to delivering good governance.
“You must discharge your duties with sincerity of purpose, impartiality, compassion, fairness, and justice and I expect you to work assiduously for the actualization of the MORE Agenda.
“As the third tier of government closest to the people, you need to improve the environmental sanitation in your communities. Our urban centres are riddled with filth as a result of improper waste disposal and poor sanitation habits of our people.
“I will like to see you step up in this regard by devising proper waste disposal measures, while embarking on aggressive public enlightenment campaign to educate our people on good sanitation habits.”
Governor Oborevwori, who reiterated that the state government does not tamper with local government funds, said he welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government autonomy, emphasising that statutory allocations
to the local governments in the state for the last three months remained intact.
He said as the then Speaker of the State House of Assembly, they voted for autonomy for the Councils during the 5th Constitution alteration session.
“I, therefore, expect you to hit the ground running by embarking on visible infrastructural projects that can be commissioned.  You must shun wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle.
“Let your administrations be characterised by modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent project delivery.
“As Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, we advocated for financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary.  The House also voted YES to Local Government autonomy during the Fifth Alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Therefore, the Supreme Court judgment on financial autonomy for local government councils is a welcome development. Actually, Delta State Government has never tampered with local government funds. Rather, the state government has often had to augment the allocations to the local government councils to enable them meet their financial obligations”, he said.
While charging the Chairmen to improve on their Internally -Generated Revenue, Governor Oborevwori cautioned against overtaxing an already burdened populace reeling under the painful effects of the current economic hardship.
He said: “Your success on this job will also depend on your ability to work seamlessly with your Vice Chairmen, the legislative arm and other critical stakeholders in the Local Government Area. Please, avoid running a one-man show.
“You must demonstrate the political sagacity to manage the local politics, and the administrative acumen to be all- inclusive to ensure peace, stability, and cohesion in your domains.”
He expressed appreciation to the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, for conducting free, fair and credible elections and to the security agencies for ensuring peace and security throughout the exercise across the state.
The newly elected Chairmen are Emmanuel Bazim Chinye, Aniocha North; Jude Chukwunkwike, Aniocha South; Dagidi Andaye, Bomadi; Julius Takeme, Burutu; Augustine Ogedegbe, Ethiope East; Christian Onogba, Ethiope West; Monday Odigwe, lka North East, Jerry Ehiwarior, lka South; Godwin Ogorugba, Isoko North; Warri Ovoke Friday, Isoko South; Vincent Osilonya, Ndokwa East; Obi Nzete, Ndokwa West; and Isaiah Esiovwa, Okpe.
Others are Innocent Esewezie, Oshimili North; Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Oshimili South; Isaac Aguanah, Patani; Bright Abeke, Sapele; Vincent Oyibode, Udu; Jaro Egbo, Ughelli North; Lucky Avweromre, Ughelli South; Possible Ajede, Ukwuani; Anthony Ofoni, Uvwie; Festus Ashima, Warri North; Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Warri South and Sylvester Oromoni, Warri South West.
While congratulating the new chairmen and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the resounding victory at the polls on Saturday, Governor Oborevwori said it was a product of weeks of grassroots campaign in which they did not take for granted and thanked the good people of Delta State who, in spite of the heavy downpour, came out and voted for the leaders of their choice.
Responding on behalf of the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, expressed appreciation to the governor and leaders of the PDP in the state for the opportunity given to them to serve at the grassroots level of governance.
He commended the electorate in the various local government areas for endorsing their candidature through the electoral mandate given to them at the polls, and assured that they have adopted the MORE Agenda of the Governor and would not betray the confidence reposed in them.
The highpoint of the ceremony which was attended by the wife of the governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; the Deputy Governor,
Sir Monday Onyeme, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Kingsley Esiso, and other top government functionaries, was the administration of oath of office on the chairmen and their deputies by the governor.

Ughievwen Monarch Congratulates Avweromre, Newly Sworn-In Ughelli South LG Council Chairman

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah
The traditional ruler of Ughievwen Kingdom, His Majesty Matthew Edirin Egbi, Owhawa II, Okobaro of Ancient Ughievwen Kingdom, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly sworn-in Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre.
In a statement signed on his behalf by Olorogun Matthew Akpogbemre Shaire, Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, and Olorogun John Okoro, Secretary of the Council of Chiefs, the monarch emphasized that the nomination, election, and subsequent swearing-in of Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre signify a beacon of hope and a new dawn for the people of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
The statement read, “On behalf of His Majesty Odjaberen, the Okobaro of Ancient Ughievwen Kingdom, The Royal Palace, the Council of Chiefs, and the Good and Peaceful People of Ancient Ughievwen (Jeremi) Kingdom at home and in diaspora, we extend our warmest congratulations to you, your family, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on your successful nomination and election as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government.
“Furthermore, we sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of our beloved state, the PDP State Party Chairman, and the Local Government Party Chairman for endorsing the PDP Candidate.
“My dear Chairman, on behalf of Ughievwen, we affirm our commitment to working closely with you to achieve remarkable success during your tenure in the Local Government. With the grace and mercies of Almighty God, we believe that success will be our portion.
“We also express our gratitude to the PDP Chieftains and the residents of Ughelli South Local Government Area for their continued support,” the statement concluded.

Utuama Extends Congratulations to Avweromre on His Inauguration as Ughelli South LG Council Chairman

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah

Hon. Festus Utuama, the representative of Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre on his inauguration as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.

In a statement, Utuama expressed his admiration for Avweromre’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving his people.

He highlighted that Avweromre’s emergence and subsequent inauguration are a clear demonstration of his qualities as a leader.

“As you take on this crucial role, you have been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of Ughelli South Local Government Council,” the statement read.

“Your election as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council reflects the trust and confidence that your constituents have in your leadership and ability to bring about positive change.

“Your history of service and achievements has undoubtedly been instrumental in your election. Your unwavering efforts to enhance the lives of the people of Ughelli South Local Government Council have not gone unnoticed.”.

“Your commitment to addressing the needs of the people, promoting development, and fostering unity is truly commendable.

“As Chairman of Ughelli South Local  Government Council, you have an invaluable opportunity to make a lasting impact.

“This is your chance to build upon the progress made thus far and to chart a course for a brighter future. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving effective governance, implementing progressive policies building on the developmental agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori the executive governor of Delta State, and ensuring that the voice of the people is heard.

“Your vast experience and knowledge will undoubtedly serve you well in this role. Your ability to engage with constituents, address concerns, and work collaboratively with various stakeholders will be crucial for successful governance. Your dedication to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability will be the cornerstone of your tenure.

“We have no doubt that under your leadership, Ughelli South Local Government Area will thrive. The constituency can look forward to a future characterized by progress, development, and enhanced opportunities.

“Your commitment to grassroots involvement, community empowerment, and sustainable development will undoubtedly usher in positive changes and a better quality of life for all residents.

Honorable Lucky Avweromre, as you embark on this new chapter of leadership, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes.

“May you continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a resolute commitment to the betterment of your people. Your dedication and service are an inspiration to others, and we are confident that you will make a profound impact during your tenure as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.

Your dedication to addressing the needs of the people, promoting development, and fostering unity is truly admirable.

In your role as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, you hold a valuable opportunity to leave a lasting impact. This is your moment to build on the progress achieved so far and to set a course for a brighter future. Your leadership will play a key role in ensuring effective governance, implementing progressive policies in line with the development agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the executive governor of Delta State, and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.

Your wealth of experience and knowledge will undoubtedly be assets in this position. Your ability to connect with constituents, address their concerns, and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders will be essential for successful governance. Your commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability will form the foundation of your term in office.

We are confident that under your guidance, Ughelli South Local Government Area will flourish. The community can anticipate a future marked by progress, development, and increased opportunities. Your dedication to grassroots involvement, community empowerment, and sustainable development will undoubtedly bring about positive changes and improve the quality of life for all residents.

Honorable Lucky Avweromre, as you embark on this new chapter of leadership, we offer our sincere congratulations and best wishes. May you continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the advancement of your people. Your dedication and service are an inspiration to others, and we believe that you will make a significant impact during your term as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.

Delta LGC Polls: Avweromre Declared Winner of Ughelli South LG Council Election

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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*Receives Certificate of Return
By Sunday Apah
The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, has been declared the winner of the July 13, 2024, elections after polling 25,614 votes to defeat the APP candidate, who scored 4,882 votes.
He was subsequently issued certificate of return on July 14, 2024 by the Chairman of Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC).
Earlier, the returning officer, Mr. Moses Agwere Esq., who made the declaration in Asaba, stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) came in 3rd with 4,011 votes.
In a chat with the victorious candidate of the PDP, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, he thanked the Almighty God who made it possible and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his resilience and unwavering commitment to peace and development in Delta State and for ensuring that he emerged as the candidate of the party.
Avweromre also thanked the elders, leaders, women, and youths of the PDP in Ughelli South for having faith in him, nominating him as their candidate, and standing by him in the general election.
According to him, “this victory is for Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, and for democracy. I also want to thank my brothers who contested with me in this election.
“Especially the pragmatism of the APP candidate, Mr. Aaron Onosigho, who actually scored a good number of votes and today he is here, having congratulated me, he is indeed a man with the spirit of sportsmanship.
“I also thank the APC candidate, Mr. Billion. I want to tell them that now that I have been declared the winner, they should come and join hands with me because I am not the Chairman of the PDP alone but for all the good people of Ughelli South Local Government Area and all political parties.
“The efforts of the security agencies are not left out in ensuring that the election was peaceful,” he added.
Mr. Aaron Onosigho, APP chairmanship candidate in a conversation, stated that the election was peaceful and credible and affirmed that the PDP and its candidate won the election by a landslide.

Delta LG Polls: Osuoza, Information Commissioner Votes

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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*Declares Exercise Free, Credible, Transparent
By Sunday Apah
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, characterized the Local Government Council election held on July 13, 2024, in his Ward as a demonstration of freedom, fairness, credibility, and transparency. He expressed confidence in a significant victory for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the forthcoming statewide polls.
Dr. Osuoza, addressing reporters shortly after casting his vote at Polling Unit 007 in Ward 10, Idumuje Ugboko, Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State around 10:30 am, commended the Delta State Independent Election Commission, DSIEC, for their punctuality in delivering election materials and ensuring a seamless, peaceful process in a conducive environment.
He remarked, “I commend DSIEC for overseeing a smooth, fair, transparent, and credible election. The early arrival of election materials and officials, along with their prompt setup, ensured everything was in place before polling commenced. I also appreciate the voters who turned out in large numbers to participate, reflecting their positive response to our campaigns.
“In line with our PDP principles, we consider every election significant. That’s why we conducted a comprehensive, energetic campaign across all Wards and Local Government Areas in the State for this council election, culminating in the impressive voter turnout we witnessed today.”
“I am absolutely confident that based on the turnout I observed at my polling unit today and the feedback I have received from our Local Government Area and other regions, the PDP is poised for a significant victory throughout the state in this election.
The Delta Information Commissioner then made an appeal to the people of Delta to continue supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration as he works to implement his MORE Agenda for the benefit of the citizens.
“I urge the people of Delta to stand by our esteemed Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as he continues to lead with focus, determination, and consistency, delivering impactful projects across the three Senatorial Districts. He is committed to providing tangible benefits of democracy through Meaningful Developmental initiatives, Opportunities for all, Realistic and impactful Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security for all Deltans. Let us join together in advancing Delta with the MORE Agenda,” he concluded.

Oborevwori, Guwor, Dafinone, Others Pay Last Respect to Gbagi

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, Friday, attended the funeral ceremony of former Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi.
Gbagi, who was Delta State Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general elections, died on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the age of 62 years.
Other dignitaries at the funeral include; Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; Senator James Manager; former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Alexander Ogomudia; Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Barr. Solomon Dalung; Member representing Ughelli South State Constituency, Hon. Festus Utuama and Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze among others.
In his homily during the funeral service, the Very Revd. Fr. Ambrose Oghenejode Abaka, said the late Chief Kenneth Gbagi was a generous man who helped people within and outside the country in difficult times of their lives.
Revd. Fr. Abaka said the news of Chief Gbagi’s death came as a rude shock to many people, adding that he was an erudite scholar of immense repute.
He disclosed that the deceased was a servant leader in the authority of Christ, saying; “we are gathered here as a family in communion with God to seek God’s grace and mercy on his soul.”
The Catholic priest harped on the need for peace and unity among the people in the Niger Delta so as to advance sustainable socio-economic growth and development in the region.
“We need unity in the Niger Delta to advance sustainable development in the region. Before now, Burutu port was working but today, Burutu and Warri ports are no longer working.
“Crude oil are extracted from the Niger Delta but most oil companies have their offices in Lagos. We need unity to reposition the region,” he said, adding that without unity, no meaningful development could be achieved.

Former Power Minister Collapses Before Trial, Remanded in Prison for Alleged N33bn Fraud

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah
Saleh Mamman, a former Minister of Power who served under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, collapsed on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja during his arraignment for an alleged N33 billion fraud.
Mamman was brought into the court in soaked clothes, with his lawyer explaining to Justice James Omotosho that he had collapsed on the court premises and was revived by medical personnel just before the hearing began.
His defense lawyer, Femi Ate (SAN), informed the court that Mamman was served with the charges by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission only after he had been resuscitated.
Ate requested an adjournment until Monday due to the ex-minister’s condition, but Justice Omotoso declined, citing a full docket for Monday.
Instead of adjourning, the judge granted a one-hour recess for Mamman to recover, although Mamman insisted that he was well enough for the proceedings to continue.
Subsequently, Mamman was arraigned on 12 counts of money laundering amounting to N22 billion. He pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The EFCC prosecutor, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), requested the judge to set a trial date, while the defense counsel mentioned that a bail application had been submitted.
The judge noted that the bail application was not yet before the court and scheduled it for a hearing the following day (today, Friday).
In the meantime, Justice Omotoso ordered that Mamman be remanded in the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the bail application hearing scheduled for the next day.
Mamman, who was a minister under President Buhari from 2019 to 2021, faced allegations of colluding with ministry staff responsible for the accounts of the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects to misappropriate approximately N33 billion.

LG Elections: There Will Be Restriction of Movement On July 13 – Delta CP

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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By Sunday Apah
Ahead of the forthcoming local government elections slated to hold on July 13, 2024, the commissioner of Police, Delta State, Olufemi Abaniwonda has placed restriction on vehicular movement from 0800hours (8AM) to 1500 hours (3PM) on the said day.
He stated that only officials on emergency and essential duties which include accredited election monitors and observers, will be allowed passage during the stipulated time.
He added that NABTEB who will be writing examination on that day are also exempted from the restriction of movement order.
The CP in a statement signed on his behalf by the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Bright Edafe on Thursday, stated that the restriction order was to enable electorates in Delta State exercise their right and to ensure hitch free elections.
According to the statement, “the Command in synergy with other sister agencies has deployed massively across the State, all polling units, RACs, collation centres, and DSIEC offices to ensure a hitch free elections and also protect the electorates, and DSIEC officials.
“Marine Police have equally been deployed to the waterways to ensure that that area too is peaceful during the election.
“There will be restriction of vehicular movement from 0800hours (8AM) to 1500 hours (3PM) on 13/07/2024, only officials on emergency and essential duties which include accredited election monitors and observers, will be allowed passage during this time, NABTEB examination students are also exempted from this restriction of movement order.
“While regretting the inconveniences this will cause, members of the public are therefore advised to adhere to this instruction as anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The ban on VIP escorts during the election will also be enforced, they are therefore advised not to move with their security details on Election Day, as any officer found wanting will be arrested and sanctioned accordingly.
“The CP also advises all non-state actors (vigilante, anti-cult volunteers, hunters etc.) that they will not be playing any role whatsoever during the elections, so they are to steer clear of the polling units and the entire election process, as any of them found meddling in the election process will be decisively dealt with.
“While wishing residents in the state a hitch-free election, it’s pertinent to note that the success of this election to a large extent, lies on how the electorate conducts themselves.
“The CP therefore urges all residents to be law-abiding, and rest assured that the command will not compromise in carrying out its primary responsibility of ensuring the protection of life and property, as well as the preservation of public tranquillity before, during, and after the elections”, it added.

Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Local Government Financial Autonomy

By
Daily Shine Nigeria
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*Prohibits Governors from Controlling Joint Accounts
By Sunday Apah
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has ruled on the case brought by the Federal Government against all 36 state governors regarding the autonomy of local governments.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), had sought complete autonomy and direct financial allocations for the 774 local governments across the country.
The apex court, led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, declared that it is unconstitutional for governors to retain funds intended for local government administrations, emphasizing that this practice has persisted for more than two decades.
Justice Agim emphasized that local governments must have control over their finances and should no longer be dependent on state governors for funds.
Furthermore, the court dismissed the objections raised by the governors and affirmed the right of the AGF to bring this case to uphold the constitution.
As a result of this ruling, the Supreme Court has mandated that funds allocated to local governments from the Federation Account should be remitted directly to them moving forward.
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